Embracing the Kiwi lifestyle

For student teacher Dustin Flores, studying in New Zealand was an opportunity to gain a cultural experience that would help him forge a deeper connection with the many Pacific Island students he taught back home in Utah.

It was also a chance to travel the world and explore the home of some of his favourite films: the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Gaining a Generation Study Abroad Award gave Dustin the financial backing to further his studies. He also appreciated the scholarship requirement of having to complete a journal, which gave him a chance to reflect on the experience.

Dustin, a student teacher specialising in English language arts, was placed at Hillcrest High School in Hamilton by the University of Waikato.

I've gained new ideas about education that differ from the standard American educational system that will help me accomplish my goals as an educator.